By: Daure David
The capital city of The Gambia came alive this evening as distinguished political leaders, policymakers, civil society representatives, and development partners from across Africa and beyond converged for the opening of the Inaugural Sahel Governance Forum, scheduled to hold from July 30 to 31, 2025.
The landmark event, themed โThe Future of Governance: (Re)building Social Cohesion and Public Trust,โ is jointly convened by the Government of the Republic of The Gambia, the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation (GJF), and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). It aims to address pressing governance challenges in the Sahel region, including citizen disenchantment, fragile democratic institutions, and the need for inclusive leadership.
Former Nigerian President Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, a leading voice for peace and democracy across Africa, arrived in Banjul ahead of the forum. He was accompanied by Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, Governor of Bauchi State, and Senator Abdul Ningi, further underscoring Nigeriaโs commitment to regional dialogue and democratic renewal.
In a statement released upon arrival, Dr. Jonathan expressed optimism about the forumโs potential impact: โI wish the participants fruitful deliberations as they explore ways of strengthening citizen trust, deepening political transitions, and improving governance in the Sahel.โ
The two-day conference will feature high-level panels, intergenerational dialogues, and thematic sessions focused on rebuilding public trust, promoting inclusive governance, and fostering regional cooperation. A key highlight will be the launch of the flagship report titled โThe Future of Governance in the Sahelโ, developed by UNDP, UNOWAS, and OSCDS.
The Sahel region, home to over 350 million people, faces complex challenges including violent extremism, unconstitutional transitions, and weakened institutions. The forum seeks to shift the narrative from crisis response to long-term investment in civic leadership and state legitimacy.
President Adama Barrow of The Gambia, host of the forum, welcomed delegates with a message of hope and commitment: โThis Forum is a vital step toward redefining governance in the region. The Gambia is proud to host this important forum and ensure the benefits of sustainable peace and development are within reach for all Sahelians.โ
As deliberations begin, the world watches with anticipation, hopeful that this gathering will chart a new course for governance and peace in the Sahel.
